The Mercedes-Benz S-Class SEL 560 SEL, produced from September 1987 to April 1992, represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance within the W126 generation. This long-wheelbase (SEL) variant, introduced with the 1985 facelift, was specifically designed to cater to discerning customers seeking a more spacious and opulent experience. Powered by the M117 E 56 engine, a 5.6-liter V8 producing 300 horsepower, and paired exclusively with a four-speed automatic transmission, the 560 SEL occupied the top echelon of the S-Class lineup, offering a blend of effortless power and refined comfort. It was a flagship vehicle intended to compete with the best luxury sedans available globally, particularly from BMW and Jaguar.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S-class |
| Generation | S-class SEL (V126, facelift 1985) |
| Type (Engine) | 560 SEL V8 (300 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1987 |
| End of production | April, 1992 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 248.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 455 Nm @ 3750 rpm (335.59 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 117 E 56 / 117.968 |
| Engine displacement | 5547 cm3 (338.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.8 mm (3.73 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 5160 mm (203.15 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1527 mm (60.12 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Threaded twist beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 215/65 R15Rear wheel tires: 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 15Rear wheel rims: 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 560 SEL is the M117 E 56 engine, a 5.6-liter (5547 cc) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a descendant of the earlier M117 series, featured a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by a Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection system, known for its reliability and precise metering. The M117 E 56 produced 300 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 455 Nm (335.59 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contributed to its longevity. The sole transmission option was a four-speed automatic, designed to provide smooth and effortless shifts, complementing the engine’s torque characteristics. This transmission was geared towards comfortable cruising rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 560 SEL, with its 300 horsepower and automatic transmission, offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its six-cylinder or manual transmission counterparts. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6.5-6.8 seconds, respectable for a large luxury sedan of the era. However, the focus was not on sporty handling. The automatic transmission, while smooth, resulted in some power loss compared to a manual gearbox. The gear ratios were optimized for relaxed highway cruising, providing ample torque for effortless overtaking. The long wheelbase and sophisticated suspension – featuring double wishbones at the front and a threaded twist beam at the rear – prioritized ride comfort over sharp handling. The car felt substantial and planted on the road, but not particularly agile.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 560 SEL was comprehensively equipped as standard, reflecting its flagship status. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, climate control, a premium sound system, and power windows and locks. The SEL designation meant extended legroom in the rear, making it particularly appealing to chauffeur-driven executives. Optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, and a rear seat entertainment system. Interior trim options typically included various wood veneers and leather colors, allowing for a degree of personalization. The dashboard layout was typical of the W126 generation, characterized by a functional and elegant design.
Chassis & Braking
The 560 SEL utilized a robust chassis designed to handle the weight and power of the V8 engine. The suspension system, as mentioned, prioritized ride comfort. The front suspension employed double wishbones, while the rear utilized a threaded twist beam. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. Steering was via a cone worm and recirculation ball system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a relatively heavy but precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 560 SEL was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and powerful engine. However, some criticized its relatively high price and somewhat dated technology compared to newer rivals. Compared to the 560 SEC coupe, the SEL offered more practicality and rear passenger space. Against the six-cylinder S-Class models (like the 300SE and 420SE), the 560 SEL provided a significant performance upgrade, but at a considerable cost. Fuel economy was predictably poor, averaging around 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL remains a highly sought-after classic car today, particularly among collectors and enthusiasts. The M117 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although parts can be expensive and increasingly difficult to find. Well-maintained examples command premium prices. The car’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of timeless styling, luxurious appointments, and robust engineering. It represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s tradition of building large, luxurious, and reliable sedans. While not a performance car in the modern sense, the 560 SEL offers a unique and rewarding driving experience that continues to captivate enthusiasts decades after its production ended.
